Congratulations Martha (Voice)
Congratulations to Martha Brouse, selected teacher of the month. Martha has been at Valley Conservatory since 2013 teaching voice. She earned the Masters degree from the Manhattan School of Music in New York City and the Bachelors degree from Sweetbriar College in Virginia.
Martha is a native of Highpoint, North Carolina. She moved to Huntsville in 1997 and has taught at Oakwood University (7 years) and UAH (currently), in addition to performing extensively. Her most recent performance was a leading role in Menotti's The Medium last month.
Before coming to Huntsville Martha lived eight years traveling and performing in Europe. She has also traveled to the Amazon. Her favorite place, however, is Victoria in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
Although music is her passion, Martha has an interest in history, art, acting, and performing in different genres of classical music. She says that her daughter, Vivian is her hobby. She enjoys carrying her around to all her events, but especially enjoys her farm, horses, pony club, and pets when she needs to get away.
Aside from music, Martha has an interest in military family affairs, and has served as President of the Officer Wives Club during the September 11 tragedy and beyond. This activity gives balance to her singing and performing.
Martha received a "Wings" award (a local "Tony" award" for best music, drama, and singing) for her role in Amahl and the Night Visitors. Kudos to Martha. The following is an interview with her:
Q. What are the things you like the most about teaching?
A. I like the friendly atmosphere, the cheerful office building, the big studio for big voices to be able to open up and sing out and have space to move about. The VC is like a small family that cares about its students. Faculty enjoy being together because the atmosphere is caring & nurturing. I also like the convenient location.
Q. How do you inspire students to practice more?
A. Setting a goal helps to motivate the student to practice. I give them music to perform in community events and recitals. Also, being alone in the practice room hashing out music helps students find and nurture their talent. One thing that I am proud of is the fact that my students on a college prep track have entered with a full music scholarship.
Q. What do you feel are the benefits of a child learning music?
A. Music definitely helps with learning and understanding math and science. Their articulation is better; their physical fitness is better due to proper breathing and less tension in body; and the joy of singing makes them happy. They can carry their instrument anywhere.
Q. What is your favorite type of music?
A. I like country music when I'm driving around in the truck with the horses. Mozart, however, is my favorite classical composer. My favorite vocalists are earlier musicians like Beverly Sills, Mirella Freni, and Rhiannon Mosson, who led the path for those of us who followed. I also like Renee Fleming , Susanna Phillips, Nathan Gunn, to name a few.
Q. Would you recommend others to study at Valley Conservatory?
A. Yes. I would.
